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| idleguy.com September 2026 | Page 7
Sports

Fearless Rick & Coin Flip Week 4 College Football Picks

Week 3 Results: Rick: 8-6; Flip: 4-10
Cumulative: Rick: 20-20-2; Flip 21-19-2

Thursday, September 24

Liberty (-2.5, 50) @ Coastal Carolina 7:30 pm (ESPN) - No particular preference here, but since it’s a Thursday game on ESPN, why not live a little?

Since this is not a conference game (Liberty, CUSA; Coastal Caro, Sun Belt), home teams have a distinct advantage, even if the oddsmakers disagree. Carolina also has better defense, and, if the offense can avoid turnovers, the Chanticleers can notch a win.

Coin Flip: Liberty

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Chanticleers 27 Flames 24


Friday, September 25

Navy (-7, 51.5) @ UAB 7:00 pm (ESPN) - Coming off an 11-2 season in 2025, the Middies look for a follow-up performance this year. A 38-30 loss to Florida Atlantic two weeks back took some wind out of Navy’s sails, but QB Braxton Woodson is expected back and Navy is 3-0 against UAB since the Blazers joined the American conference in 2023.

Even if Woodson isn’t 100%, Navy’s run-first offense is usually tough to stop and the Midshipmen will be up for their first conference tilt.

Coin Flip: Navy

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Midshipmen 31 Blazers 14


Northwestern @ 5 Indiana (-21, 49.5) 8:00 pm (FOX) - Conference opener for both teams gets national coverage from FOX, with the reigning national champions looking to prove last season was no fluke. So far, the Hoosiers have been impressive, though against inferior opponents, beating North Texas, 52-16; Howard, 55-0, and Western Kentucky, 38-0.

Northwestern comes in 2-0, after taming coach Prime’s Colorado Buffaloes, 41-7 last week. The Wildcats rang up 182 yards rushing and 241 yards passing, with QB Aidan Chiles going 17-for-22 for 241 yards and three scores. The game served as a useful tuneup for what figures to be a competitive affair and a litmus test for both squads. The Wildcats went 7-6 last season, wining the Game Above Sports Bowl over Central Michigan, 34-7. They were 4-5 in Big Ten play and are looking to improve on that record. Should be a fun one with a juicy line.

Coin Flip: Indiana

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Hoosiers 31 Wildcats 20


Saturday, September 26

1 Texas (-5.5, 56) @ 14 Tennessee 12:00 pm (ABC) - The Vols are something of a question mark at this point in the season, facing #1 Texas in their first SEC contest. They get home field and a 3-0 record to their favor, but the Longhorns showed plenty of grit in their comeback, 24-23, win over Ohio State two weeks back.

This will be the first meeting of the two schools since Texas joined the SEC in 2023, so anything could happen. Given this is a huge game for the Vols, expect plenty of noise from the huge fan base and lots of serious hitting. Tennessee needs a big win to find a way into the CFP, and this could be a key spot for what looks to be a sound rushing game. Texas QB Arch Manning has been just inconsistent enough to open a few cracks for the Vols, Any turnovers could prove costly.

Coin Flip: Tennessee

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Volunteers 33 Longhorns 31


Illinois @ 7 Ohio State (-27.5, 53.5) 12:00 pm (FOX) - Both teams entering 2-1 records, but that’s where the similarities end. Illinois lost to Duke, 31-27, in week 2, while the Buckeyes dropped a heartbreaker deep in the heart of Texas, 24-23. Ohio State returned last week to humiliate Kent State, 59-3, and they remain the team to beat in the Big Ten.

Illinois should be able to get a few scores, but not quite as often as the Buckeyes. They don’t have the kind of secondary to cover Jeremiah Smith adequately. These two met last season at Illinois, with the Buckeyes securing a 34-16 win. The only question is whether Ohio State can score 40 or more.

Coin Flip: Illinois

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Buckeyes 45 Fighting Illini 10


Wake Forest @ 16 Louisville (-12.5, 58) 12:00 pm (ESPN) - Wake Forest showed some grittiness in the second half, losing to Miami, 33-20, last week, and they’ll be facing another ACC powerhouse in the Cardinals, though this week they’re on the road, making their task that much more difficult.

Louisville is 2-1, the loss a 41-38 defeat by Ole Miss, which, considering what has commenced thus far this season, isn’t really a knock. After winning, 41-31, over SMU last week, the Cardinals have stamped their claim to a true contender for the ACC title and possibly a trip to the CFP. They are absolutely loaded on offense.

Coin Flip: Louisville

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Cardinals 45 Demon Deacons 21


Oklahoma @ 2 Georgia (-14, 44.5) 3:30 pm (ESPN) - Figure on Georgia holding the Sooners to less than 10 points in this one and maybe even no touchdowns. Oklahoma’s offense was nowhere to be found in the 17-10 loss to Michigan in week 2, and last week’s 14-6 win over New Mexico was unconvincing.

With Georgia’s defense geared up for battle, this could become very one-sided in a hurry. The Bulldogs figure to open their SEC schedule with a bang.

Coin Flip: Georgia

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Bulldogs 38 Sooners 6


4 Ole Miss @ 21 Florida (-3, 59) 3:30 pm (ABC) - This line is going to be a surprise to many, as Ole Miss appeared to be top-notch in their 32-24 win over LSU last week, but maybe the oddsmakers are figuring on a letdown after such a huge victory.

Florida comes off a solid effort, winning, 44-39, at Auburn last week. They get a leg up for being at home, but seriously, are they that good? The Rebels moved up to #4 in the polls and possibly have the Heisman winner in QB Trinidad Chambliss, Clouding the issue is the status of the Ole Miss running game, with Kewan Lacy a game time decision, and second stringer, Makhai Frazier is also questionable, leaving J.T. Lindsey the only option at running back. That may be what Florida is favored. They have a solid offense, with Aaron Philo at QB, with RB Jadan Baugh and a strong receiving corps. If the Gators can control time of possession and keep Chambliss off the field, they may be able to win a big one.

Coin Flip: Florida

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Gators 26 Rebels 24


15 Utah (-7.5, 48.5) @ Iowa State 3:30 pm (FOX) - With so many good teams in the Big 12, the Cyclones are likely to be overlooked, but they are coming off an 8-4 season but lost QB Rocco Becht for his senior year to Penn State through the transfer portal. He’s replaced by Arkansas State transfer, Jalen Raynor.

The Cyclones will have to lean heavily on their defense if they hope to overturn the Utes. That may be easier said than done as Utah has blown out their first three opponents by 52, 33, and 33 points. Their defense is probably one of the best in the conference, maybe in the entire country. Tough job for the homies.

Coin Flip: Iowa State

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Utes 34 Cyclones 14


17 Iowa @ 18 Michigan (-5.5, 38.5) 3:30 pm (CBS) - Don’t expect much scoring in this one. Both teams are built on defense first and are likely to finish the season as two of the top three defenses in the conference.

Michigan (3-0) showed how to get it done in a 17-10 win over Oklahoma in week 2, and followed up with a 52-17 romp over UTEP last week. The Hawkeyes are 3-0 heading into Big Ten play. They managed a 16-13 win over Iowa State and a 55-0 win over Northern Iowa last week. As usual, if Iowa can muster any kind of offense, they will be dangerous. These two have not met since the 2023 Big Ten championship, won by the Wolverines, 26-0. Always a chance for an upset with Iowa in town.

Coin Flip: Michigan

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Hawkeyes 20 Wolverines 16


South Carolina @ 8 Alabama (-12.5, 53.5) 7:00 pm (ESPN) - If Alabama can get off to a better start than they have in their last two games (the Tide fell behind in both wins over Kentucky and Florida State), they might make this a runaway.

LaNorris Sellers has returned for his third year as the Gamecock’s starting QB, but he’s already thrown three picks this season, and Alabama’s secondary is a ball-hawking bunch. As things usually go down in Tuscaloosa, the Tide should be rolling late again for a knockout win.

Coin Flip: South Carolina

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Crimson Tide 42 Gamecocks 20


23 Texas A&M @ 10 LSU (-8.5, 52) 7:30 pm (ABC) - While the Tigers are coming off a tough loss at Ole Miss, the Aggies are wondering if they can recover from last week’s 31-21 upset loss to Kentucky.

A&M QB Marcel Reed was far from a model of consistency, hitting on 26 of 49 passes for 236 yards, a TD, and two picks. The defense had a tough outing, giving up 21 3rd quarter points to the Wildcats. LSU should rebound from their loss and take it to the Aggies on both sides of the ball.

Coin Flip: LSU

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Tigers 34 Aggies 17


20 Oregon (-3, 62.5) @ 12 USC 7:00 pm (NBC) - Thus far the Trojans have shown a lack of discipline on defense, a condition that could prove costly against incoming Oregon. In last week’s 42-35 win at Rutgers, USC had trouble stopping the Scarlet Knights in the second half and the Trojan offense had to keep scoring to avoid disaster.

The Ducks slipped by Boise State in their opener, 34-27, but were stunned in a 39-31 loss at Oklahoma State in Week 2. They took out their frustration on Portland State, plundering the Vikings, 82-0. That doesn’t mean their defense is any better than what they showed thus far, and USC’s offense doesn’t fool around. Expect this defenseless affair to go deep into the night and maybe come down to one or two key stops late in the contest.

Coin Flip: Oregon

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Ducks 42 Trojans 36


19 Missouri @ 24 Mississippi State (-6, 58.5) 7:45 pm (SECN) - Both teams come into this game with 3-0 records, though the Bulldogs already have an SEC win, having topped South Carolina, 41-34 last week on the road.

Both teams have talented offensive players and so-so defenses which could translate into kind of a track meet or shootout. Given the unpredictable nature of both teams at this point of the season, taking the Mezzo and the points seems a safe and sane play.

Coin Flip: Mississippi State

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Tigers 41 Bulldogs 35


Fearless Rick & Coin Flip Week 3 College Football Picks

Week 2 Results: Rick: 6-7; Flip: 8-5
Cumulative: Rick: 12-14-2; Flip 17-9-2

Thursday, September 17

Syracuse @ Pittsburgh (-10, 51.5) 7:30 pm (ESPN) - A couple of mid-tier ACC programs with bowl aspirations face off in a traditional rivalry dating back decades to when both were elite college football programs. These days, they struggle with recruiting against larger, better-funded schools.

Line seems a little extreme, given that 1-1 Syracuse is coming off a home loss to Cal, 21-18 and 2-0 Pitt took down UCF last week, 12-7, in a defensive struggle. Pitt defeated the Orange last season, at Syracuse, 30-13, but Syracuse was missing starting QB Steve Angeli, who is once again healthy, giving the “Cuse a minor edge against an aggressive defense.

Coin Flip: Pittsburgh

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Orange 21 Panthers 17


Friday, September 18

5 Miami (-21, 56) @ Wake Forest 7:30 pm (ESPN) - The Demon Deacons come off a 38-36 shootout win at Purdue, but one has to wonder if they can hang with the Hurricanes for long. Apparently, the oddsmakers do not believe so.

Miami has hammered their first two opponents, Stanford, 45-6, and Florida A&M, 77-7. The “U” is back, big time with exceptional talent on both sides of the ball. If they get an early lead, it could be lights out for Wake.

Coin Flip: Miami

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Hurricanes 42 Demon Deacons 14


22 Houston @ 13 Texas Tech (-7.5, 51) 8:00 pm (FOX) - Oddly enough, over the first few weeks of the season, both of these teams have played - and beaten - Oregon State. Both teams beat the Beavers, with Houston winning at home, 33-20 in week one, while the Red Raiders prevailed at Oregon State last week, 35-24.

Texas Tech won this matchup last season, 35-11, but the Cougars were without QB Conner Weigman in the second half, due to injury. Still, the Cougars were down, 25-11, before Weigman departed. Houston has some glaring holes in their secondary and Weigman may be a difference-maker this time. Close call.

Coin Flip: Houston

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Cougars 31 Red Raiders 28


Saturday, September 19

2 Georgia (-25.5, 54.5) @ Arkansas 12:00 pm (ABC) - There’s a reason Georgia is ranked #2. They’re always good. Their first two games were blowouts (63-3 over Tennessee State; 70-20 over Western Kentucky), and they take to the road for their first SEC contest of the season.

The Razorbacks were humiliated at Utah last week, 43-10. QB KJ Jackson was just 14-for-34 for 139 yards, no TDs and one pick. Hard to imagine Arkansas having much luck against the Bulldog defense.

Coin Flip: Arkansas

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Bulldogs 45 Razorbacks 7


Kent State @ 6 Ohio State (-52.5, 59.5) 12:00 pm (FOX) - This isn’t even going to be fun to watch, unless you like slaughters. Coming off a melt-down to Texas last week in a 24-23 thriller, the Buckeyes are probably an angry bunch and Kent State, normally no match for the #6 team in the nation, are catching them at a bad moment.

The Golden Flashes may not be flashing much of anything in this contest. They lost their opener at South Carolina, 57-0 and bounced back to defeat Wofford last week, 36-15. Will Ohio State score 60 points on their own? Good possibility.

Coin Flip: Kent State

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Buckeyes 64 Golden Flashes 6


North Carolina @ Clemson (-3.5, 44.5) 12:00 pm (ESPN) - Three cheers for Bill Belichick, who has the Tar Heels at 2-0, including a week zero 15-10 win over TCU.

Clemson failed miserably in their opening, 51-10, loss at LSU, and didn’t look very threatening in last week’s 22-7 win over Georgia Southern. They may be at home and they may be favored, but the college football world has left Dabo Swinney behind. Belichick made heavy use of the portal in recruiting and likely has a better team, one that may surprise a few ACC foes.

Coin Flip: Clemson

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Tar Heels 30 Tigers 16


Kentucky @ 9 Texas A&M (-17, 49) 3:30 pm (ESPN) - In their 48-20 win over Arizona State last week, the Aggie offense didn’t look all that dangerous and QB Marcel Reed displayed more of the inconsistency that plagued him late last season. Still, A&M took over in the second half and won going away, credit to their defense, which held the Sun Devils to 10 second half points.

A similar story can be told about Kentucky’s 45-17 loss to Alabama last weekend, as the Crimson Tide rolled to 32 second half points and held the Wildcats scoreless. Will history repeat? Kentucky has enough offense to stay close and the Aggies aren’t exactly Alabama-like on offense.

Coin Flip: Kentucky

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Aggies 31 Wildcats 24


Florida State @ 10 Alabama (-19, 49.5) 3:30 pm (ABC) - This very well might be the no-brainer of the weekend. Alabama struggled in the first half at Kentucky last week, but won by a wide margin, 45-17.

The Seminoles lost a heart-breaker to SMU, 27-24, but the Mustangs turned the ball over four times and still managed to come away with a win. At home, against a suspect team that toppled them last season (31-17), the Tide should roll big time. They simply have too much talent for Florida State to stay competitive for long.

Coin Flip: Alabama

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Crimson Tide 42 Seminoles 17


12 USC (-24, 60) @ Rutgers 3:30 pm (CBS) - Oops! Rutgers comes into this Big Ten clash 0-2 and looking again like a cellar dweller in the conference.

The Trojans have done little wrong in wins over three inconsequential opponents and are likely to score early and often against the Scarlet Knights. This could become embarrassing despite USC having to travel cross-country.

Coin Flip: USC

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Trojans 48 Scarlet Knights 13


16 SMU @ 23 Louisville (-1.5, 59) 3:30 pm (ESPN2) - A consequential game here, as both ACC teams have sights set on the CFP and a win or loss here may determine their ultimate fate.

Louisville has the more pressing need, having lost their opener to Ole Miss, 41-38. Last week’s 59-13 win over Villanova proved only that the offense, led by QB Lincoln Kienholz, is ready for this matchup. SMU slipped by Florida State, 27-24, and pounded UC Davis last week, 56-10. The win over the Seminoles was sloppy and if the Mustangs haven’t corrected some of their defensive miscues, they may be in for a long afternoon in Louisville.

Coin Flip: SMU

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Cardinals 38 Mustangs 24


Florida (-2.5, 53.5) @ Auburn 7:00 pm (ESPN) - Auburn prevailed in an opening test, 17-16, over Baylor, and last week thumped Southern Miss, 43-8, so they have the tools to make a gain against the Gators. Both teams are 2-0. Florida has mauled their first two opponents by a combined score of 118-24. This one will be a little more competitive.

Both teams are talented but are coming off poor performances in 2025. Florida was 2-6 in the conference; Auburn, 1-7. Despite being in the SEC, haven’t met since 2019, when the Gators prevailed at home, 24-13. Slight nod to the home team, who may have an edge defensively.

Coin Flip: Auburn

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Tigers 27 Gators 23


Michigan State @ Notre Dame (-29.5, 52.5) 7:30 pm (NBC) - The Spartans have been revitalized under head coach Pat Fitzgerald, who had great success in 17 seasons at Northwestern, winning 110 games.

The Spartans are off to a 2-0 start, though the Irish will be a stiff test. Michigan State was 4-8 last season, but has rebuilt quickly via recruiting and the portal.

Notre Dame, as always, has CFP aspirations, but has had a tendency to lose games early in the season. They appear up to the task, with wins over Wisconsin (41-13) and Rice (52-0). Michigan State’s defense may make this one a lot closer than predicted.

Coin Flip: Notre Dame

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Fighting Irish 26 Spartans 20


7 LSU (-3, 59) @ 8 Ole Miss 7:30 pm (ABC) - Both teams come into the fray 2-0, with the big story line being Lane Kiffin, who coached the Rebels last season before departing for LSU prior to the CFP, so this will be Ole Miss’ chance to get a bit of revenge on their former coach.

Key players, QB Trinidad Chambliss, and RB Kewan Lacy return for Ole Miss, and their chances are good against an LSU defense that has yet to face a potent offense, despite smothering Clemson, 51-10, and Louisiana Tech, 45-14. QB Sam Leavitt has Heisman hopes and has performed well for the Tigers thus far. Should be a fun one.

Coin Flip: LSU

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Rebels 34 Tigers 31


11 BYU (-17, 52.5) @ Colorado State 7:30 pm (CBS) - BYU turned on their second half afterburners in a 28-17 win over Arizona last week, a big win for the Cougars over a tough opponent.

BYU QB Bear Bachmeier has Heisman potential and the Rams’ defense will likely not be able to contain the Cougar offense. The Rams may be better than expected, having beaten Wyoming, 35-13, and Southern Utah, 58-24, in their first two weeks. Their explosive offense, led by QB Hauss Hejny, may keep this one close.

Coin Flip: Colorado State

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Cougars 38 Rams 27


Fearless Rick & Coin Flip Week 2 College Football Picks

Week 1 Results: Rick: 6-7-2; Flip: 9-4-2

Thursday, September 10

Florida A&M @ 7 Miami (-55.5, 61.5) 8:00 pm (ACCN) - Well, now this isn’t at all fair. In order for Miami to cover this obscene spread, they’ll have to score eight touchdowns and hold the Rattlers to ZERO points.

Florida A&M come out of the FCS Southwester Athletic Conference (SWAC) and already have one win and one loss. There’s a very good probability (ESPN puts it at 92%) that they will be 1-2 at the conclusion of this game, but expect them to score at least one field goal and maybe even a touchdown, making this absurdity of a line suitable only for pure haters. We’ll take the under and the points.

Coin Flip: Miami

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Hurricanes 52 Rattlers 6


Friday, September 11

Villanova @ 24 Louisville (-36.5, 56.5) 7:00 pm (ACCN) - This looks like the worst mismatch of the week. Louisville played Ole Miss tooth and nail last week only to lose by a field goal, 41-38. QB Lincoln Kienholz was a revelation, throwing for 307 yards and rushing for 69. He appeared to be fearless running and throwing and is likely to continue improving over the course of the season, making the Cardinal a real threat take the ACC by storm.

Villanova, better known for its basketball program aren’t all that bad, considering their opponents in the Patriot League. They dropped a 35-32 decision to William and Mary in week zero and defeated Bucknell last week, 17-16. Louisville poses different problems for the Wildcats, like how to stop a relentless offense. Turnovers could be huge here.

Coin Flip: Villanova

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Cardinal 52 Wildcats 9


Rutgers @ Boston College (-3, 54) 7:30 pm (ESPN2) - The Scarlet Knights didn’t do themselves or the coaching staff any favors, losing their opener last week to UMass, 37-21. Admittedly, the Minutemen had more than their fair share of quality athletes on the field and somewhat stunned Rutgers with their offensive abilities.

That is no excuse, however, and, unless the Scarlet Knights are going to repeat last season’s 5-7 record, they’ve got to regroup and play smarter football. Boston College got roughed up by Cincinnati last week in a 34-15 loss, so this could present an opportunity for Rutgers to salvage their season.

Coin Flip: Rutgers

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Scarlet Knights 31 Eagles 27


23 Missouri (-5.5, 51) @ Kansas 8:00 pm (FOX) - Both teams are coming off runaway wins against suspect opponents. Missouri knocked off Arkansas-Pine Bluff, 54-14, while the Jayhawks ripped Long Island, 51-6. Not much to take away from either game other than both teams seemed to tune up for this SEC-Big 12 contest as expected.

Being that Kansas is home and looking to improve off a 5-7 season in 2025, they might be something of a surprise for the Mizzou. Sophomore QB Isaiah Marshall completed 14 of 19 passes for 246 yards and a pair of scores last week and rushed for another 49 on seven carries. Missouri’s senior QB, Austin Simmons went 17-for-19 for 252 and four scores in their win. This game has the look of a track meet with a flying finish.

Coin Flip: Kansas

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Jayhawks 38 Tigers 34


Saturday, September 12

6 Oregon (-22.5, 57.5) @ Oklahoma State 12:00 pm (ESPN) - Oregon barely got past Boise State last week, 34-27, at home, and, while Boise State usually fields a strong team, the Ducks were supposed to be a serious challenger for winning the Big Ten and maybe even a national championship. That seems to be somewhat in doubt now, though the Ducks could make believers again with a big road win against the rebuilding Cowboys.

Oklahoma State was 1-11 last season and extended their losing streak to 12 with last week’s 24-10 loss to Tulsa. They’ve made changes, but are nowhere near even the middle of the Big 12. The Ducks may fly off with a huge win here.

Coin Flip: Oklahoma State

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Ducks 45 Cowboys 13


Arizona State @ 10 Texas A&M (-14, 50) 12:00 pm (ABC) - Marcel Reed returns at QB for one of the more prolific offenses in the country and he was on his game n last week’s 50-0 blowout of Missouri State, throwing for 233 yards on 21 of 30 passes with two touchdowns.

Arizona State will pose more of a problem for the Aggies, who had trouble on defense at times last season, but has added players via the transfer portal to address those issues. The Sun Devils won’t be a walkover by any means. Last season they went 8-5 but ended their season with a loss to Arizona, 23-7, and a Sun Bowl defeat to Duke, 42-39. The O/U on this one is 50. Might want to go for 60 or more.

Coin Flip: Texas A&M

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Aggies 45 Sun Devils 24


11 Oklahoma (-6, 43.5) @ Michigan 12:00 pm (FOX) - The Wolverines got a reprieve from the officials and the clock (seems it was actually the right call), scoring on the final play of the game for a 13-12 win over upset-minded Western Michigan.

The Wolverines were outplayed by the Broncos. QB Bryce Underwood completed just 12 of 22 passes with a TD and a pick. The Sooners manhandled UTEP, 51-0, and have a rushing attack and solid defense that will make life miserable for Michigan. Sooner QB John Mateer returns as a fifth year senior. His leadership skills should lead to a big win on the road.

Coin Flip: Michigan

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Sooners 34 Wolverines 13


Alabama (-10.5, 49) @ Kentucky 3:30 pm (ABC) - Big test for the Crimson Tide, playing at a place that has been tough for visitors over the past few seasons. Bama QB Keelon Russell was 18-for-30 against East Carolina last week in a 48-10 win, but he didn’t get much help from his offensive line and had no TD passes.

Kentucky blew out Youngstown State, 45-13, last week. QB Kenny Minchey was 18-for-27 for 301 yards and four scores. Alabama will have their hands full on both sides of the ball.

Coin Flip: Alabama

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Wildcats 27 Crimson Tide 24


Arizona @ 15 BYU (-7.5, 47.5) 3:30 pm (FOX) - The Wildcats got off to a solid start with a 35=7 win over Northern Arizona, but BYU looked simply awesome in their 63-7 blowout of Utah Tech.

The Wildcats return Noah Fifita for his fourth year as starting QB, but he’s never proven to be much more than a manager for a middle tier team. The Cougars, on the other hand, look ready to challenge for the Big 12 crown and that’s why they’re more than a TD favorite at home.

Coin Flip: BYU

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Cougars 30 Wildcats 17


Mississippi State (-1.5, 56) @ Minnesota 3:30 pm (CBS) - As expected, Minnesota blew away Eastern Illinois last week, 59-7, but that doesn’t make them a championship-caliber team. The Golden Gophers held their own in the Big Ten last season, going 5-4, but they suffered big losses to Ohio State, Oregon, and Iowa. They’re better than last season, but the Bulldogs, who were just 1-7 in SEC play last season, have retooled and have Kamario Taylor behind center, a major plus factor.

Taylor, a sophomore, opened his season by hitting 22 of 34 passes for 354 yards and four touchdownsDs in a blowout, 62-13, win over Louisiana-Monroe last week. Minnesota will defend better, but there is plenty of upside for the Bulldogs this year.

Coin Flip: Minnesota

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Bulldogs 41 Golden Gophers 31


1 Ohio State @ 4 Texas (-1.5, 48.5) 7:30 pm (ABC) - Arch Manning and the Longhorns return to avenge last season’s 14-7 loss to the Buckeyes, but this time they get home field advantage, which could be huge. Bigger yet, the return of Arch Manning and a strong Texas rushing attack.

Obviously, both teams are loaded, but the Longhorns have what appears to be a very strong running game and their defense is likely to be better than last year’s, which was already darn good. Ohio State has its #1 ranking on the line and are fully reloaded. Should be a fun affair.

Coin Flip: Ohio State

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Longhorns 24 Buckeyes 20


13 Texas Tech (-26.5, 53.5) @ Oregon State 7:30 pm (CBS) - The Red Raiders will be vying for a return to the CFP this season after being ousted in a quarterfinal game by Oregon, 23-0. Finishing with a 12-2 record in 2025, Tech will need to be at their best against all opponents. Their 33-10 win over Abilene Christian last week was hardly convincing, but it was, after all, just a tune-up.

Oregon State will make a game of this, just as they did in heir 33-20 loss to Houston last week. With a hug spread against them, the Beavers will play sound defense and possibly give their offense some decent field positions from which to launch drives. Figure this to be much closer than the line suggests.

Coin Flip: Oregon State

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Red Raiders 31 Beavers 20


Iowa State @ 21 Iowa (-14, 40.5) 8:00 pm (NBC) - Don’t let the line fool you. This game is traditionally very close as in-state rivalries often are.

Both teams come in at 1-0 after blowout wins, but you can toss all the stats and hype out in this Big Ten - Big 12 affair.

Coin Flip: Iowa

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Hawkeyes 21 Cyclones 10


Fearless Rick & Coin Flip Week 1 College Football Picks

Thursday, September 3

Colorado at Georgia Tech (-6.5, 60) 8:00 pm (ESPN) - The Yellow Jackets have serious bowl aspirations after going 6-2 in the ACC and 9-4 overall. They come packed with offensive talent and the Buffs are going to have trouble keeping the Tech offense off the field.

Following a 3-9 season, Colorado may again be the laughing stock of the Big 12 and coach “Prime Time” Sanders may be looking for a job.

Coin Flip: Georgia Tech

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Yellow Jackets 48 Buffaloes 14


Eastern Illinois at Minnesota (-42.5, 51.5) 8:00 pm (Peacock) - There are often upsets in these early season Big 10 versus lesser conference games, but this isn’t likely to be one of them. The Panthers of Eastern Illinois went 3-9 last season and are hardly the kind of team to challenge even a second-rate Big 10 team like the Gophers.

Minnesota should take command early and rip to a big score.

Coin Flip: Minnesota

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Golden Gophers 56 Panthers 10


Friday, September 4

Toledo at Michigan State (-10, 47.5) 8:00 pm (FS1) - Another one of those Big 10 - Mid-America match-ups that may be just a little more interesting. The Rockets went 8-5 overall last season and always field a solid team.

The Spartans have fallen on lean times, going 1-8 in conference and just 4-8 overall, meaning they won their non-conference games, but only one after that. Could be the biggest upset of Week 1. Even if the Rockets don’t win, the Spartans might have a difficult time rolling up a 48-point margin.

Coin Flip: Michigan State

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Rockets 34 Spartans 24


7 Miami (-24.5, 47.5) at Stanford 9:00 pm (ESPN) - The question is how good will the Hurricanes be without Carson Back throwing the ball? Miami played for the National Championship last season and are likely going to pick up right where they left off, with one of the more dominant teams in the ACC, possibly taking the conference title and heading back to the CFP.

Stanford lost to the Hurricanes last season, 42-7, and the Cardinal are still playing catch-up in the ACC. Even though they’re at home, they’re probably not going to win this game. Miami gets off to a fast start.

Coin Flip: Stanford

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Hurricanes 44 Cardinal 14


Fresno State at 14 USC (-22.5, 51.5) 9:00 pm (FOX) - The Trojans are coming off a Week Zero, 42-26, home win over San Jose State, though many who saw that game were not impressed with the USC defense giving up 23 4th quarter points, despite having a huge lead and many defensive starters having been pulled.

None the less, a win is a win for Lincoln Riley and the USC faithful. Fresno State, which finished 9-4 last season out of the Mountain West, and is now in a revamped PAC-10, may be a little bit of a tougher test. Plenty of scoring to be expected here and it could get closer than the Trojans are expecting.

Coin Flip: USC

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Trojans 38 Bulldogs 28


Saturday, September 5

North Texas at 6 Indiana (-40.5, 55) 12:00 pm (FOX) - Defending national champions, Indiana has a lot on the line here against a North Texas team that reached the American conference championship game, losing, 34-21, to Tulane.

The Mean Green made amends by winning the New Mexico Bowl over San Diego State, 49-47. North Texas is not likely to go do easy and Indiana doesn’t have many of the same players as they did last season. Points look very, very juicy.

Coin Flip: North Texas

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Hoosiers 31 Mean Green 20


East Carolina at 13 Alabama (-27.5, 52.5) 12:00 pm (ABC) - The Crimson Tide aren’t what they used to be under Nick Saban, when they were expected to win a national championship every year and nearly did so, but they are probably quite a bit better than the East Carolina Pirates, a team that held their now in the American Conference, going 9-4 overall while allowing the fewest points in the conference.

All said and done, the Pirates may turn the tide on Alabama. Defensive scheming should work well against an offense that may not be at its best.

Coin Flip: Alabama

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Crimson Tide 31 Pirates 26


Oregon State at 23 Houston (-21, 49) 12:00 pm (ESPN) - The Beavers are now a part of the newly-aligned PAC-10 conference, so they’ll have something to play for other than impressing their girlfriends.

Still, their 2-10 record from last season doesn’t scare the Cougars, who are seeking a Big 12 title after going 6-3 in the conference and 10-3 overall last season.

Coin Flip: Houston

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Cougars 41 Beavers 14


Boise State at 2 Oregon (-24.5, 51.5) 3:30 pm (CBS) - The Broncos usually field a quality team and this year seems to be no exception. However, Oregon is loaded with talent on both sides of the ball and are one of the favorites to win the Big 10 conference title and do damage in the playoffs.

Look for the Ducks to fly high on offense and show up with a defense that might be even better than last year’s.

Coin Flip: Boise State

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Ducks 51 Broncos 13


Baylor at Auburn (-7, 60) 3:30 pm (ABC) - Two teams that aren’t expected to be great in 2026, yet have solid coaching staffs and more than enough talent to compete at the highest levels of collegiate football.

Auburn had a very down season in 2025, winning only one of eight conference games, so this will be a real test for them. Baylor was 3-6 in in Big 12 and 5-7 overall, making this game look more like a toss-up than the seven point line indicates.

Coin Flip: Auburn

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Bears 37 Tigers 31


Clemson at 11 LSU (-10, 51) 7:30 pm (ABC) - This is, for sure, the big game of the opening weekend, despite the Clemson Tigers being left out of the preseason Top 25.

Coach Lane Kiffin took over as the LSU head coach at the end of last season and is expected to lead the Tigers back to national prominence. This game will be a litmus test for his high hopes against a crafty Dabo Swinney, head coach of the Clemson Tigers. Clemson has had a couple of rough seasons, but Swinney has a plan and losing to LSU may not be part of it. The war of words has already begun and the Clemson players will be ready to rock.

Coin Flip: LSU

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Clemson Tigers 27 LSU Tigers 24


Sunday, September 6

Washington State at 17 Washington (-23.5, 50) 4:00 pm (NBC) - If there’s any question how irrelevant preseason rankings are, this is the game that proves the point. A long-running, traditional, natural rivalry is set up as a runaway for the ranked Huskies.

The Cougars managed a 7-6 record last season and now have company in an expanded PAC-12 conference. They should put forth a competitive effort and may come away with a win.

Coin Flip: Washington State

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Cougars 34 Huskies 24


Wisconsin vs 4 Notre Dame (-21, 47) Lambeau Field, Green Bay, WI, 7:30 pm (NBC) - The Irish have eyes on a national championship and are usually ready to roll when the regular season begins.

Wisconsin is one of the better defensive teams out of the Big 10, but they’re not likely to slow down Notre Dame’s offense. Besides, the Fighting Irish may have one of the best defenses in the country. We’ll find out who’s boss right away with this prime-time matchup.

Coin Flip: Notre Dame

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Fighting Irish 38 Badgers 14


24 Louisville vs 9 Ole Miss (-7, 55) Nissan Stadium, Nashville, TN, 7:30 pm (ABC) - The Rebels finished last season at 13-2, making it all the way to the CFP semifinals, where they lost to eventual runner-up Miami, 31-27.

Even with Lane Kiffin being replaced by Pete Golding, there isn’t much drop-off to be expected from Ole Miss. They’re likely to compete heavily in the SEC and may very well return to the CFP. Louisville, although a solid squad in their own right, will struggle to keep their defense off the field.

Coin Flip: Louisville

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Rebels 34 Cardinals 20


Monday, September 7

19 SMU (-3, 52.5) at Florida State 8:00 pm (ESPN) - Florida State unranked and an underdog at home? Blasphemy!

Of course, one has to consider what a colossal flop the Seminoles were in 2025 (5-7) to understand the reasoning. It doesn’t help matters that SMU went through their 2025 campaign at 9-4, finishing up with a 24-19 win over Arizona in the Holiday Bowl. The Mustangs are always a team on the edge, and this season they just might break into the top ranks.

Of course, a win here would be essential to that cause and much can go wrong. Florida State already has a win in hand, a Week Zero, 34-17, win over New Mexico State, though that may not count for much. These ACC foes did not play each other last season.

Coin Flip: SMU

Fearless Rick’s Pick: Mustangs 35 Seminoles 20


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